Sanchez says no to Northern Ireland

Barnet manager Lawrie Sanchez has ruled himself out of the running for the vacant Northern Ireland manager’s position - following speculation that he was one of the favourites to take on the role.

Sanchez was in charge of Northern Ireland between 2004 and 2007 and has openly stated that previous altercations with ex Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington have made it unsuitable for him to apply for the job.

Worthington was criticised by Sanchez after Northern Ireland’s failure to progress to Euro 2012. Sanchez said: “The fuss caused by that interview has made it inappropriate for me to apply at this time. I've since written to Nigel apologising for any embarrassment that was caused."

He has not ruled out a return at some point though. He added: “I said from the moment I left Northern Ireland that one day I would like to return. I just don't think at this moment in time it is appropriate.”

The Barnet manager’s decision to opt himself out of the race leaves Jim Magilton, Michael O’Neill and Iain Dowie as the main contenders to succeed Worthington.